I did a 4 night section hike the last September in Nantahala. The trip was great and the crowds were fine. There were two of us and we found that non-shelter camping spots were empty and we used them as oppose to shelters.
I am starting to think about a 2021 hike, and the first choice is something early in the year (April or May) and somewhere south of Virginia.
BUT.... considering how many more NOBO Through hikers there are now and add in other section hikers, is that timeframe crazy for crowds? I don't mind seeing people along the way but am more worried about getting an acceptable campsite where you are not packed in. With my experience in September it feels as if the number of hikers went up X3 or more, it might be tough to get a camping spot.
So am I worried over nothing?